The crucial role of exercise and physical activity in weight management and functional improvement for seniors

The most successful exercise programs for seniors who are obese are of moderate intensity and long duration, and are performed frequently [21,26,27,29]. The cumulative effect of exercise over time is substantial and research has demonstrated a clear, dose-response relationship between the amount of weekly exercise performed and the amount of weight lost in individuals who are overweight [30]. Diet, exercise, and behavior modification related to eating and exercise practices are necessary to ensure long-term maintenance of weight loss. Enlisting the support of family and friends in a weight-loss program and maintaining an exercise journal are helpful in overcoming barriers to success. Past studies have indicated that a small percentage of people who lose weight are able to achieve long-term weight control. Strategies should be implemented earlier to prevent obesity in adults who are overweight. Counseling and intervention to prevent obesity in overweight individuals are essential and more effective than obesity treatment regimes for reversing the current obesity epidemic. All individuals who are overweight should be identified, evaluated, and counseled to begin a weight-reduction program even when only modest weight gain is detected. BMI and physical activity levels should be discussed along with the health risks associated with obesity. Sedentary individuals should be instructed to incorporate more activity into their daily lives. An exercise prescription should be provided that takes into consideration the individual's previous level of activity, interests, time constraints, and physical impairments. Long-term weight control requires that individuals who are overweight or obese value physical activity and exercise as health priorities. The seriousness of this medical issue needs to be conveyed. Health care professionals should consistently intervene when dealing with individuals who are overweight to prevent weight progression to the level of obesity.